The stray cats living at Landrum are to be removed due to health and safety concerns, according to university officials. Maintenance crew and staff members who have been caring for them were allegedly given until Feb. 27 before local animal shelters are called in. 

“We know many members of the NKU community have shown genuine care for the cats living near Landrum Academic Center, and we share the goal of ensuring their well-being. At the same time, feeding and sheltering animals next to campus buildings creates health and safety concerns, including attracting wildlife, affecting those with allergies, and interfering with building systems such as HVAC equipment. The University is working with local animal-care partners to pursue humane solutions that support the cats’ well-being. We ask that no food or supplies be left in the area,” the university released in a statement to The Northerner on Friday. 

This has prompted a response from the NKU community, where an online petition was created to keep the cats on campus. Organized by anthropology student Natalie Brown, the petition cites the “unethical and incredibly harmful” consequences of removing a cat colony. 

“These cats are beloved by many and cause no harm to anyone or anything,” Brown said. “This is wrong and we need to show NKU how much the cats are wanted here.”

The five cats have been living under Landrum for three years. Students and faculty alike have donated food, toys and other provisions for the animals, including BFA student Rachel Paxitzis, who made a cat house in the Fall semester of 2025. 

“The Landrum cats have been a part of the NKU family for several years,” Paxitzis said. “NKU students and staff have volunteered countless hours to feed them and create shelters for them…All of the cats have been fixed and have had vaccinations. These animals were discarded and neglected and now they have a home and are well cared for. They have created a sense of community for students and staff.”

This is a developing story.